Bantams Plan Testimonial Match For Stephen Darby

The former Bradford City Captain met with club officials yesterday to discuss plans.

Former Bradford City captain Stephen Darby is having a special testimonial match planned for him.

The 30 year old was forced to retire from professional football in September after being diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease.

A meeting was held yesterday with club officials about the unique match, which will most likely take place early next year.

City Chairman Edin Rahic said: "Stephen met with me and Julian (Rhodes) earlier today and we are now looking at what the club can do to help raise greater awareness of the disease.

"We are planning to stage a testimonial match. It would be a fantastic occasion, allowing everyone who knows and is connected to Stephen to come out and support him while raising funds for a brilliant cause.

"Stephen Darby will always be massive part of this football club and we are delighted to be moving forward with some firm plans, which will be revealed in more detail in the coming weeks and months."

All proceeds will be donated to help raise awareness of Motor Neurone Disease.

Bradford City announced last week that more than £11,000 for the Motor Neurone Disease Association was raised. £7,843 of it came from last Tuesday's Stephen Darby appreciation Evening.

Other initiatives such as the auctioning of squad signed, one-off 'Darby 2' warm-up-shirts, managed to raise £3,656 of the £11,490.